In the UK, the average cost of a pedi treatment is around £17. However, premium treatments can easily cost double this amount. Are you feeling the pinch of the rising cost of living? The good news is that pedicures are relatively easy to pull off at home, making them a must if you’re finding it hard to justify the cost of your usual salon treatment. However, to pull off the perfect pedi, you’ll need to be using the right tools. Need some help putting together your inventory? Below are 7 essentials no pedicure arsenal should be without.
1. Nail Files
For perfect pedicure results, you’ll need some reliable nail files at your disposal. Forget about those budget-friendly basic sets and bite the bullet for a professional-quality line-up of files. At a minimum, a premium set should include metal files for shaping nails, alongside crystal files that can deliver that sought-after polished finish. If you’re a little more confident about undertaking your pedicure, think about upgrading to a file set that offers a variety of grit levels. This way, you’ll have full control over smoothing and shaping, producing salon-level results.
2. Nail Clippers
If you want the best results from your pedicure, you’ll need to invest in some quality nail clippers. Undersized fingernail clippers won’t do here. Instead, you’ll need more robust clippers designed especially for toenails that can handle cutting through thicker keratin.
3. Nail Scissors
While clippers are essential, you’ll also need nail scissors to hand if you want to ensure maximum precision and a clean cut. Scissors are particularly useful for shaping nail edges, as well as getting rid of unwanted snags. They’re also handy if you’re prone to brittle nails, with a premium pair of scissors able to cut through toenails without splitting them.
4. Cuticle Pushers
If you want a cleaner, more uniform look, you’ll need a cuticle pusher. As the name suggests, these little accessories push back cuticles, making them appear longer. A cuticle nipper is also worth having to hand if you want to get rid of things like hangnails.
5. Nail Brushes
Before you start getting to work with clippers, scissors, and cuticle pushers, you’ll need to ensure your nails are thoroughly cleaned first. Nail brushes are an effective way to rid your nails of unwanted dirt, ensuring they’re ready for treatments and polishes.
6. Foot Files
It’s not just nails you need to worry about when performing a pedicure. You’ll also have to contend with unsightly calluses and dry skin. Foot files will make quick work of dead skin, leaving your feet feeling renewed. You might want to think about upgrading to a salon-quality callus remover if you’re particularly prone to dry skin. Meanwhile, pumice stones are a tried and tested tool for handling problem areas like heels.
7. Nail Polish
Once the prep work has been completed, you’re ready to start making your nails your own. You’ll want a ready stock of polish in your favourite colours, along with dedicated nail brushes and nail art tools if you’re after a particular finish. When shipping for brushes, go with premium ones made from sable hair. These are ideal for applying acrylic-based polishes and retain liquid well, increasing precision when applying.
Tired of paying over the odds for pedicure treatments? By investing in a few core staples, you’ll always be ready to tackle this popular salon treatment at home. However, for best results, don’t be afraid to spend a small premium on those accessories. Basic tools might be your only option if you’re on a tight budget, but to ensure a superior finish, always go for professional-grade tools.
